Exploring Advanced Surface Treatment

Posted by EyeseeNaturally on March 1st, 2015

Lasik surgery has become an accepted and highly effective method for managing less than perfect vision - an option for those who have long depended on eyeglasses and contact lenses. Lasik is a fast, painless procedure that can leave patients with clearer vision within a matter of moments. However, not everyone is a candidate for Lasik surgery and for those who have been told that they are not a good fit, Advanced Surface Treatment (AST) may be a great alternative.

How does AST work?

During LASIK, a thin incision is made in the top layer of the corner after which a flap is folded back, the cornea is reshaped, and the flap is replaced. During AST, no flap is made. Rather a microscopic layer of the corneal tissue is removed thus reshaping the cornea and allowing light rays to clearly pass to the retina.

The procedure itself is painless and takes about 30 minutes during which the eyes are numbed and the eye surgeon uses an excimer laser to gently remove the exact amount of corneal tissue to improve vision.

What are the results?

AST is a customized procedure that is tailored to each patient’s eye shape. This allows for the most effective outcome for each patient. Immediately following the AST procedure, the patient may experience a few days of blurriness and minor discomfort. Eye drops and/or other medication can help with any discomfort and the healing process overall.

Patients will begin to see results in a few days and vision will continue to improve over time as the eyes continue to heal.

Who is eligible for AST?

Patients 21 years of age and older who have not had any major change in their prescription over the past year may be eligible for AST. The procedure has been shown to be effective for those with nearsightedness and farsightedness either with astigmatism or without.

About Author

The Eye Center is the leading refractive practice in South Carolina, providing full service eye care and specializing in Refractive Surgery – Epi-Lasik, Thin Flap Lasik, AST, PRK CK, PRELEX, as well as Corneal Transplant and Cataract Surgery.